Operation Strategy for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Systems for Small-Scale Stationary Applications

Solid oxide fuel cell micro-cogeneration systems have the potential to reduce domestic energy consumption by providing both heat and power onsite without transmission losses. The high-grade heat produced during the operation of the power causes high thermal transients during the startup/shutdown phases and degrades the fuel cells. To counteract the degradation, the system should not be stressed with rapid load variation during the operation. The analysis will consider an average profile for heat and power demand of a family house. Finally data analysis and power system limitations will be used to develop a viable strategy of operation.